Ballooning in Northam and the Avon Valley, Perth, with breakfast

This hot-air balloon experience near Perth offers a peaceful yet exhilarating way to start your day. Flying over the rolling hills of the Avon Valley at dawn, it combines breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and a delicious breakfast — all wrapped up in around four hours.

What makes this tour truly special? First, the early morning float provides stunning sunrise vistas that are hard to beat. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable crew makes the whole adventure smooth and engaging. And third, the opportunity to participate—lifting the balloon, packing it down, and chatting with the pilot—adds an authentic touch.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the tight basket space, which might be a bit cramped for some travelers. It’s also worth noting that this activity is weather-dependent, so cancellations can occur if conditions aren’t suitable.

This ballooning trip is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable sunrise experience—especially if you enjoy a mix of gentle adventure and local charm.

Key Points

• Breathtaking sunrise views over the Avon Valley provide unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Expert pilots and friendly crew ensure a safe, relaxed atmosphere.
• Participation options like helping set up or pack down the balloon enhance the experience.
• The delicious breakfast offers a satisfying end to your morning adventure.
• The tour offers fantastic value, combining a scenic flight with a memorable meal.
• Weather can affect scheduling, so flexibility may be needed.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour kicks off bright and early in Northam at the meeting point on Fitzgerald Street. Traveling from Perth, many travelers find the early start well worth it for the tranquility and spectacular views. Once you arrive, you’ll participate in the balloon setup, which is both engaging and a great way to feel part of the adventure. According to reviews, the entire process takes patience and teamwork but provides a genuine connection to the experience.

The flight itself is highly adaptable, depending on wind direction. Typically, you’ll drift across the Avon River and farmland, with the ascent timed for sunrise—an event travelers describe as “breathtaking” and “magical.” As Jelena_S puts it, “Sunrise was so beautiful to see from the sky.” Expect a tranquil float with little sensation of height, as many find ballooning surprisingly peaceful rather than scary or dizzying.

Throughout the flight, the pilot may invite you to help with flying or packing down the balloon, which adds a fun, hands-on element. Several reviews mention that the crew, including experienced pilots like Nick and Paul, are particularly friendly, professional, and keen to share their knowledge. After landing, the whole team helps with the pack-up, often involving your — a rare chance to get involved in this historic activity.

The Scenic Highlights

The views are a major draw. From the sky, you’ll see the sprawling farmland, the river, and the expansive countryside bathed in early morning light. Many travelers comment that the landscape looks almost unreal, with the peacefulness of the dawn adding an extra layer of beauty. The wide-open skies and slow float allow for plenty of photo opportunities, especially as the sun rises, casting warm hues over the landscape.

Reviewers frequently mention that the experience is “not just a flight,” but an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the vastness of Western Australia’s countryside. The peaceful, silent glide makes it a meditative experience, appreciated by all ages—most travelers say children six and up are suitable, with some noting that the basket can be quite snug.

The Post-Flight Breakfast

After landing, most guests are guided to a buffet breakfast at Dome, which offers a relaxed setting to reflect on the flight and chat with fellow travelers. The breakfast is described as “good,” with many feeling it’s a fitting end to their early morning adventure. Some reviews mention the breakfast as a highlight, offering a hearty, satisfying meal after a surreal float in the sky.

The Value for Money

At $250.86 per person, this tour offers a well-balanced package. It covers the scenic flight, the participation, the flight instructions, and the breakfast—making it a good value considering the unique experience. Many reviewers have noted that the guides and pilots are highly knowledgeable and attentive, adding to the overall value.

The reviews speak volumes about the professionalism of the team. For instance, Nancy_H says, “Our trip was well organised and exhilarating.” Several reviewers also mention the “friendly staff” and “good support,” which makes the experience all the more enjoyable.

However, because the balloon ride depends heavily on weather conditions, some guests have faced cancellations. It’s worth planning with a bit of flexibility or rebooking if necessary. Fortunately, the tour offers free cancellations with a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Group Size and Safety

With a maximum of 16 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized experiences and interactions. The crew emphasizes safety, with many reviews highlighting the professionalism and reassuring nature of the guides. As one review notes, “Nick was careful to reassure everyone about the safety measures,” which is important for those who might feel nervous about flying.

Additional Practicalities

The tour starts at 4:30 am, with the entire process—including setup, flight, and breakfast—lasting approximately four hours. Be prepared for a cold start, especially in winter, but many find that once airborne, the temperature is comfortable. The basket can feel a little tight for some, and the landing might be bumpy, especially if you’re on uneven ground or in windy conditions.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable, layered clothing and a hat or cap to shield from the burner’s heat. Children six and above are welcome, making it a family-friendly outing, but pregnant women over 20 weeks are advised not to fly.

This ballooning experience is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, scenic adventure that offers more than just a view. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will adore capturing the sunrise over the Australian countryside. It’s also a fantastic option for romantic getaways or special celebrations. The friendly crew and participation element make it particularly appealing for those craving a more authentic, hands-on experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxing yet exhilarating morning with beautiful vistas and good company, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with early mornings and a bit of adventure, knowing that weather could affect plans.

This ballooning tour in Northam combines the magic of sunrise with spectacular scenery and a warm, friendly crew. The opportunity to participate in the setup and pack-down process adds an authentic touch to a well-organized experience. The included breakfast provides a hearty, satisfying conclusion, making the whole morning feel complete.

The focus on safety, professionalism, and genuine interaction stands out among many adventure activities. If you’re after a gentle, scenic adventure that melds history, nature, and community, this tour will likely tick all the boxes.

While weather dependency can be a minor hiccup, the overall value and memorable views make this a worthwhile splurge for anyone wanting to see Western Australia’s countryside from a new perspective. Best suited for adventure lovers, couples, families, or anyone who wants a peaceful yet exhilarating start to their day.

How early do I need to arrive?
The tour begins around 4:30 am, so expect to be on location well before sunrise, which is part of the charm of the experience.

Can children participate?
Yes, this activity is suitable for ages 6 and above, provided they are comfortable with the setup and flight process.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is recommended, along with a hat or cap to protect from the burner heat. The early morning can be chilly, but it usually warms up once you’re airborne.

Is the experience weather dependent?
Yes, flights only operate in suitable weather conditions. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the scenic balloon flight, participation, safety instructions, and a breakfast afterward. The small group size enhances the personalized experience.

Will I feel height sick?
No, most guests find ballooning to be incredibly tranquil and not at all dizzying, thanks to the gentle float and peaceful atmosphere.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 16 travelers, maintaining a cozy, friendly environment.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It’s quite relaxed—you just need to be able to participate in setup, sit comfortably during the flight, and handle a potentially bumpy landing.

This is a highly praised, value-packed way to enjoy Western Australia’s scenic beauty from above. Whether you’re seeking a romantic sunrise, a family adventure, or a peaceful solo escape, this ballooning trip is likely to be a highlight of your trip.